Interview: Actor Sudipto Chatterjee on His Working Experiences in Buddhadev Dasgupta’s Film Tope (Sholoana Bangaliana Exclusive)

Actor Sudipto Chatterjee will be seen in the role of an eccentric and faded aristocrat Raja in the upcoming Bengali film Tope by Buddhadev Dasgupta. An exclusive interview with the actor..

Priyanka Dutta, Sholoana Bangaliana- Tell us about Raja the character that you play in the film Tope.

Sudipto Chatterjee- The character Raja in Narayan Gangopadhyay’s story was based in pre-Independence India. Buddhadev Dasgupta has made the character based in today’s times. To play this character, I had to delve into the human psyche and understand the dark desires of the human minds. That is a huge challenge for me. I am grateful that he gave me this challenge. He is no longer a king but he maintains the aura and grandeur of the erstwhile aristocracy. The throne may be there but you see the diamond is missing. When he is challenged by the documentary filmmaker, he goes on a hunting trip to kill a tiger. That was not a problem when the story was written but is a problem in today’s times.

How was the experience of working with Buddhadev Dasgupta?

Sudipto Chatterjee- He is last of the giants!! I am glad that I got the chance to work with him. Working with him means I am getting worldwide exposure. The film may be made in Bengali language, but the film will be watched by people across the globe. This is a wide exposure for me.

The film has been well received at the Busan Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival and other festivals. What are your expectations from the film?

Sudipto Chatterjee- Well, that is a cause of concern for me. For those Bengali audiences who have read the original story, this film may not suit their tastes. This is because this film has deviated much from the story. And the original story is among the best short stories of all times in Bengali literature. However if I go by the reaction at the various film festivals, I am sure the audience will go to watch the film at the cinema halls.

We wish that actor Sudipto Chatterjee achieves great appreciation for playing Raja in Tope!!

Interview by:

Priyanka Dutta takes a keen interest in lifestyle and entertainment related news. She also enjoys interviewing celebrities and other renowned personalities. Priyanka holds a post graduate degree in English and Mass Communication. Journalism is her passion and she has reported for many a reputed international web portals.